Dubai Basketball Continue Their Perfect Start After Beating SC Derby

AdmiralBet ABA League Round 11, Sunday, 21 December 2025:

SC Derby - DUBAI BASKETBALL 67:80 (2:21, 15:21, 12:19, 18:19)

PHOTO GALLERY
POST-GAME COMMENTS

Game Recap: Dubai Basketball continued their strong run in AdmiralBet ABA League Group A with a road victory over SC Derby in Podgorica, claiming an 67:80 win in Round 11. The home side opened the game with confidence and energy, using early pace and shot-making to take a narrow lead after the first quarter. SC Derby showed no hesitation against the league leaders and stayed competitive through the opening stages.

As the game progressed, Dubai gradually imposed their rhythm on both ends of the floor. Their deeper rotation and disciplined execution allowed them to gain control before halftime, heading into the break with a modest but important advantage. SC Derby remained within reach early in the third quarter, but consistency proved difficult against a well-organized opponent. Dubai’s composure down the stretch ensured they closed the game without major complications, securing another important Group A win.

Key Moments: SC Derby made an encouraging start, building early momentum and briefly establishing a clear advantage in the opening quarter. That initial push set the tone for a competitive first half, forcing Dubai to respond rather than dictate from the outset.

The turning point came midway through the third period. With the score still within one possession, Dubai raised the intensity defensively and capitalized on transition opportunities. A decisive scoring run during this stretch created the first double-digit gap of the night, shifting control firmly to the visitors. From that moment on, Dubai managed the tempo effectively, extending the lead in the final quarter and preventing any late comeback attempt from the hosts.

Man of the Match: Dwayne Bacon stood out as the most influential player of the contest. In just 20 minutes on the floor, the Dubai Basketball guard finished with 17 points and 2 assists, providing timely scoring whenever his team needed stability. His ability to convert from long range and attack defensive mismatches played a key role in Dubai’s offensive efficiency, particularly during the decisive phases of the game.

Can’t Trick the Stats: Three-point shooting ultimately made the difference. Dubai Basketball connected on 14 shots from beyond the arc, compared to 8 made three-pointers by SC Derby. That gap in perimeter efficiency translated directly into scoreboard separation, especially during Dubai’s crucial third-quarter run. While SC Derby competed with effort and balance, Dubai’s superior long-range production proved to be a decisive factor in shaping the final outcome.